Timi Frank Condemns President Tinubu's UK State Visit as Insensitive Following Terrorist Attacks
Former All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy national publicity secretary, Timi Frank, has launched a scathing criticism against President Bola Tinubu and the United Kingdom government over the ongoing state visit to the UK. Frank described the presidential trip as "insensitive" and "an embarrassment" to Nigeria, particularly in light of recent deadly terrorist attacks in Maiduguri, Borno state capital, which occurred on Monday, March 16.
Accusations of Insensitivity and International Complicity
In a statement issued on Thursday, March 19, Frank accused the UK government of demonstrating complicity and indifference to Nigeria's security crisis by proceeding with the ceremonial visit. He emphasized that the timing was particularly egregious, coming barely twenty-four hours after the devastating attacks that left citizens mourning.
"The visit has caused huge disgrace and embarrassment for our country," Frank stated, noting that while Nigerians were grieving victims of violence, government officials were engaged in ceremonial activities abroad. He argued that President Tinubu's actions "clearly show he does not value Nigerians, particularly those in the North" who are most affected by terrorist activities.
Criticism of UK Government and Security Delegation
Frank further criticized the UK for reportedly issuing hundreds of visas to members of the Nigerian delegation, suggesting this demonstrated a lack of concern for Nigeria's plight. He expressed disappointment that King Charles III failed to raise concerns about insecurity and governance issues during the visit, drawing unfavorable comparisons with how former US President Donald Trump might have handled the situation.
The former APC chieftain also questioned the composition of the delegation, particularly the presence of top security officials whose absence from Nigeria during a critical security period he described as "gross dereliction of duty." Frank alleged that the visit amounted to an international endorsement of governance failures in Nigeria, warning that such engagements risk legitimizing what he termed poor leadership.
Warning for 2027 Elections and International Silence
Looking toward future political developments, Frank urged Nigerians to remain vigilant ahead of the 2027 general elections. "Nigerians must prepare to ensure this administration does not return. They must defend their votes and demand credible elections," he warned, expressing concerns about potential electoral manipulation.
He also questioned the silence of the international community, alleging that the UK visit demonstrated that foreign powers care more about potential corrupt benefits from Tinubu's administration than about Nigerians suffering from terrorism. "The visit has clearly shown that the UK does not care about the plight of Nigerians who are dead and those continuously being terrorized," Frank asserted.
Background on Timi Frank's Political Criticism
This is not the first time Timi Frank has been vocal about political matters. Previously, he criticized PDP leader Bode George for warning former Vice President Atiku Abubakar against contesting the 2027 presidency, arguing that George lacked the capacity to determine Nigeria's presidential candidates. Frank's consistent criticism of both ruling and opposition parties positions him as a significant voice in Nigerian political discourse.
The controversy surrounding President Tinubu's UK visit highlights ongoing tensions between ceremonial international diplomacy and domestic security crises, raising important questions about leadership priorities and international partnerships in times of national tragedy.
